[Vaginal discharge--diagnosis and treatment in general practice]

Based on a review of the literature, this article describes the most common causes of vaginal discharge including changes in the woman's perception of her vaginal secretion, disturbances in the vaginal microbiological environment (vulvovaginal candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis), and infection with Chlamydia trachomatis. The article attempts to answer a number of questions which this condition poses to the clinician. It is concluded that with the available diagnostic possibilities the general practitioner is in a good position to make a correct diagnosis and institute an effective treatment.